The construction of the Ikom-Etomi-Agbokim Waterfalls road officially commenced on Wednesday, with the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, flagging off the much-anticipated project.
The road initiated under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, is expected to address long-standing challenges in Cross River State, promoting enhanced connectivity, tourism, and economic growth for the region.
During his speech at the ceremony, Senator Enoh stated that the critical role the route will play, linking the four government-owned cocoa estates established during the late Michael Okpara administration.
He highlighted that this project goes beyond road construction—it’s about addressing decades of neglect, fostering regional development, and improving the livelihoods of people in the area.
“The importance of this route cannot be overstated,” Enoh said.
He pointed out that, in addition to boosting tourism at the Agbokim Waterfalls, the road will also provide vital support to local cocoa farmers and traders, significantly transforming the region.
The Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to national infrastructure development, including naming the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a critical federal project.
He also thanked the Niger Delta Development Commission for its efforts in revitalising the region’s infrastructure, acknowledging the challenges faced in the past, including issues with contractor selection in 2012.
Senator Enoh commended the current leadership of the NDDC, led by Samuel Ogbuku, for ensuring that the project is now in the hands of competent contractors, committed to delivering quality results on time.
Reflecting on the personal significance of the project, Senator Enoh shared his deep emotional connection to the road, which has been the subject of delays and controversies for many years.
“For me, public service is about delivering happiness and excitement to the people,” he said, adding that the commencement of this project marks the end of a long-standing jinx.
The new road is expected to significantly boost tourism, especially for the Agbokim Waterfalls, one of Nigeria’s most renowned natural attractions.
Additionally, it will enhance economic activities in agriculture and trade, benefiting local communities along the route.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by a large crowd of community members, stakeholders, and government officials, all of whom expressed excitement and optimism about the project’s potential to transform the region.
As construction gets underway, the people of Cross River State eagerly anticipate fulfilling this transformative vision, which promises to strengthen infrastructure, boost economic development, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
